California Physical Therapists Host Clinic for Policymakers

ALEXANDRIA, VA, April 2, 2008 — Physical therapists from the California Physical Therapy Association (CPTA) promoted the benefits of physical activity and the physical therapist's role in fitness and injury prevention at their Wednesday, April 2 Capitol Fitness Clinic at the state capitol in Sacramento. CPTA members provided advice on golf swing, blood pressure, balance, posture, and strength.

"The CPTA 2008 Wellness Screening offered legislators and policy staff advice from licensed physical therapists on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, improve balance, and avoid injuries," said CPTA President Cheryl Resnik, PT, DPT. "The event was a great opportunity for attendees to experience the benefits of working directly with physical therapists on enhancing wellness. And, for some, developing a safer, more effective golf swing didn't hurt, either."

At the golf-swing analysis, state officials and staff showed off their swing while physical therapists provided advice on balance, flexibility and posture to avoid injury. Physical therapists were also on hand to take blood pressure and test participants' overall balance, posture, and strength. Fitness clinics are a great way for chapters to raise public awareness of the benefits of physical therapy and the importance of physical therapy initiatives at the state level.

Physical therapists are health care professionals who diagnose and manage individuals of all ages, from newborns to elders, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives. Physical therapists examine each individual and develop a plan of care using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Physical therapists also work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility by developing fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.

The California Physical Therapy Association (CPTA) is a component of the American Physical Therapy Association (www.apta.org), a national organization representing physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students nationwide. Its goal is to foster advancements in physical therapist education, practice, and research. Consumers can visit www.findapt.us to find a physical therapist in their area, as well as www.apta.org/consumer for physical therapy news and information.